
The Swannanoa Valley People, Place, & The American Experience lecture series explores key historical, cultural, and ecological aspects of the Western North Carolina region with monthly evening lectures, taking place January thru December at the Assembly Room at Givens Highland Farms (410 North Commons Court, Black Mountain, NC 28711, Black Mountain, NC 28711). These hour-long meet-ups engage the many stories that have shaped the Swannanoa Valley as a place and look at the human and natural forces that have shaped the region, bringing these histories into a present-day context. Each presentation ends with a Q&A discussion bringing our shared history into context with contemporary issues.
When & Where: People, Place, & The American Dream lectures take place once a month, January thru December on Thursday evenings from 6:00pm to 7:15pm at the Assembly Room at Givens Highland Farms (410 North Commons Court, Black Mountain, NC 28711) unless stated otherwise. For attendees who are not residents of Highland Farms please park along Tabernacle Road by the Assembly Hall.
Cost: Tickets are $5 for museum members who use their promo code, $10 for general admission. Some fees may apply. If you are not financially able to afford to attend this series, please contact the Swannanoa Valley Museum at 828-669-9566 for scholarship availability or email svminfo@history.swannanoavalleymuseum.org.
Cancellation Policy:
We understand that unexpected circumstances may arise. You may cancel your enrollment in the program for a full refund up to 48 hours before the program start date.
- Cancellations made 48 hours or more before the program start date will receive a full refund.
- Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the program start date will not be eligible for a refund.
- A full refund will be offered if the museum cancels the program due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Please Note:
- We strongly recommend notifying us of your cancellation in writing via email to svminfo@history.swannanoavalleymuseum.org
- You will receive a confirmation email upon processing your cancellation request.
2025 Entire Series Schedule
| Name | Date |
| Appalachian Christmas Past & Present | Thursday, December 11th, 6:00-7:15pm |
2025 Upcoming Event Details & Registration

Thursday, December 11th: Appalachian Christmas Past & Present
Have you ever heard of “Old Christmas”? Want to know why we use mistletoe as a holiday decoration or place a candle in the window? Join the Swannanoa Valley Museum this December to uncover the myths, meanings, and practices behind a traditional Appalachian Christmas.
Museum Director LeAnne Johnson will lead this festive and engaging lecture exploring how mountain communities celebrated the season—from homemade gifts and simple decorations to songs, stories, and community gatherings that kept holiday spirit alive through the years.
Come enjoy an evening of history, folklore, and holiday cheer as we celebrate an Appalachian Christmas, past and present.